About Bastyr

A pioneer in natural medicine, Bastyr University is a federally recognized, nonprofit, private university that is at the forefront of developing leaders in natural health arts and sciences for the 21st-century.

Overview of Bastyr

Bastyr University campuses, on which we study, work, and live today, are the original and contemporary homes of many Indigenous peoples, including the Coast Salish people and the Kumeyaay (KOOM-e-yi) people whose spiritual connection to these lands, forms the foundations of their ways of being.  

Since its inception in 1978, Bastyr University has been a pioneer in science-based natural medicine. Founders Les Griffith, ND; William A. Mitchell, Jr., ND; and Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., ND; along with Sheila Quinn, named the school after their beloved teacher and noted Seattle naturopathic physician Dr. John Bastyr.  

Although the school started as a naturopathic medicine college, Bastyr University now offers more than 17 degree and certificate programs. Building on its science-based foundation, the University has received several multimillion-dollar research grants from the National Institutes of Health. More information on our History. 

We invite you to explore Bastyr University's two beautiful campuses and growing online offerings. You’ll discover rigorous science-based education and an incomparable community. 

closeup of Bastyr's vision hanging on the wall

Vision and Mission

Join with Bastyr as we pursue our vision of transforming the health of the human community.
presenter speaking to group in auditorium with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on projector screen

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Bastyr University is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, equitable, and engaged academic community that values social justice, cultivates a culture of belonging, and advances health and education equity through our institutional structures, policies, practices, programs, services, and partnerships.
print out of Strategic plan on table

Leadership and Strategic Plan

Leadership across the university provided guidance for Bastyr University’s Strategic Plan. Meet the leadership and read how we plan to expand natural medicine education, research and community outreach.